PW's Year of Beer: Allagash Midnight Brett

We love beer. That's why we're devoting an entire year to discovering (and drinking) cold ones from near and far. Know of a beer worth shouting out? Send us a note at tips@philadelphiaweekly.com.

It’s easy for the casual beer drinker to be a little put off by Allagash. Simply put, their beers are not cheap. But the thing is, this Maine brewery earns those higher price points by making some of the best beer on the planet. Midnight Brett is an example of that. This creamy brown colored beer looks nice enough with its wild tan head, but looks don’t tell you that you’re in for something a little different. Aromas of dark cherries and wood mix with a tannic sharpness for something that brings to mind wine and chocolate. Sipping reveals subtle tartness, a musky wildness that reminds you of an old woodland cottage, and layers of soft chocolate, dark berries, and mild roasted coffee. The softest touch of herbal hops balance things out. Refined, beautiful and perfect, seek out this rarity at places like Monk’s.